The healthcare industry is in need of people, which can make it the perfect career choice for those who have the right temperament for it. However, you need to ensure you have the right skills, too. Aside from pursuing education in nursing or a similar career, training in Basic Life Support (BLS) skills can be crucial, as well. These are the skills that can help you respond effectively to crises in both medical and everyday settings, often being the difference between life and death.
BLS certification isn’t just helpful, it’s required in a range of industries. Aside from nursing, caregivers, teachers, and ambulance workers may need to develop these skills. Even when not mandatory, the ability to perform CPR or use an AED correctly can make you a vital asset, regardless of the setting you’re in.
However, where you learn BLS matters, and, for that reason, we’re going to take a closer look at Safety Training Seminars (STS), what they offer, how they operate, and whether their training programs are the right choice in 2025.
Who Are Safety Training Seminars?
Safety Training Seminars (STS) is a woman-owned California-based training company that’s been operating since 1989. Led by Laura Seidel, the company has grown to operate over 70 training centers in locations throughout the state of California, from San Jose and Oakland to Sacramento and beyond. Their objective is to make professional CPR, AED, and BLS training accessible, flexible, and affordable to as many people as they can.
As an American Heart Association Training Center, STS is a trusted source for certifications that are widely accepted by employers in the healthcare industry, as well as schools and other institutions. This accreditation is especially important, as not all CPR or BLS programs are accepted by all employers or in all locations.
Beyond their basic first aid and CPR courses, STS offers a wide range of professional training programs, such as Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Pediatric CPR & First Aid, and EMSA Health & Safety courses tailored for childcare providers.
The Importance Of AHA-Certified BLS Courses
As there is no centralized, standardized qualification for BLS, you can get yours from a range of different sources, but the American Heart Association’s certification is often regarded as the gold standard, especially in healthcare settings.
AHA-certified BLS courses focus not just on the basics, but high-level life-saving techniques, like:
- CPR for adults, children, and infants
- Proper use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
- Team-based response dynamics
- Recognizing and responding to respiratory and cardiac emergencies.
As such, through these courses, learners can build skills beyond following basic protocols and are more effective decision-makers under pressure. For that reason, AHA certification is one of the most widely recognized signifiers of quality BLS training, accepted by many employers, medical boards, and state regulators. This means it’s often a better career move to get your training through accredited providers like Safety Training Seminars.
How STS Works
Safety Training Seminars work with a hybrid training model. Instead of a long, in-person course, students can complete their online learning module at their own pace, followed by an in-person skills check at one of their 70 locations. The hands-on portion uses voice-assisted manikins (VAMs) for real-time feedback on how to effectively execute techniques.
Courses are available seven days a week, with evening and weekend slots available. Same-day AHA eCards (digital certification) are issued upon course completion, which is a big plus for those needing immediate documentation for work. STS also offers on-site classes for businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities.
The Pros Of Safety Training Seminars
AHA Accreditation
As an official AHA Training Center, STS has a big advantage over a lot of its alternatives based on the fact that most employers and organizations will accept your qualifications, backed by one of the most trusted names in healthcare education.
Flexible Learning Options
The hybrid model allows you to complete training on your schedule, with in-person components typically taking less than an hour, and the ability to complete the online course anywhere.
Extensive Coverage Across California
STS has over 70 locations in the state, meaning that if you’re in CA, you can likely find a center near you, ensuring accessibility for most Californians.
Competitive Pricing
STS promises the lowest-priced AHA-accredited courses in the state, with a guarantee that you don’t pay more than necessary for your training
Same-Day Certification
As soon as you complete your course, your AHA certification is issued immediately, vital for professionals who need proof of training ASAP for job applications or renewals.
Daily Support
Safety Training Seminars offers phone and email support every day, including weekends, making help always accessible.
The Downsides
California-only Presence
Safety Training Seminars currently only have locations in California, meaning if you’re not in the state, you may have to be willing to travel to access their courses.
Tech-Dependent Format
The hybrid model is convenient and preferred by many people, but those who aren’t as comfortable with online learning may prefer courses that are fully in-person. The short in-person segment may feel a little fast for complete beginners, though it still includes essential hands-on practice.
Rescheduling Fees
While there is flexibility with your scheduling, if you need to change your appointment, some STS locations may charge a $30 rescheduling fee. This doesn’t apply if you purchase scheduling protection when first booking your course, however.
Final Verdict
Safety Training Seminars has earned over 18,000 five-star reviews on Google, and it’s easy to see why. They are a highly quality and trusted provider of CPR, BLS, and first aid training in California. With AHA-approved courses, convenient hybrid learning, and a focus on affordability, they’re an excellent choice for both individuals and organizations.
STS stands out as an AHA-accredited provider that makes learning vital skills accessible and convenient without sacrificing the quality of its courses like some of its other online competitors might. Whether you’re a medical worker renewing your credentials or trying to build the qualifications you need for a career change, Safety Training Seminars are one of the strongest BLS training options you can find.